La Fortuna Waterfall: A Costa Rican Treasure
Experience the majestic La Fortuna Waterfall: Hike through lush rainforest, swim in refreshing pools, and support the local Costa Rican community.
La Fortuna Waterfall, or Catarata Fortuna in Spanish, is a stunning natural wonder located near the town of La Fortuna in Costa Rica's Alajuela Province. Fed by the Fortuna River, the waterfall plunges approximately 230 feet (70 meters) into an emerald pool below, offering visitors a memorable experience of the country's lush rainforest and geological history.
A brief summary to Fortuna Waterfall
- 21007, La Fortuna, Alajuela Province, 21007, CR
- +50624799515
- Visit website
Local tips
- Arrive early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds, especially during peak season (December to April).
- Wear closed-toe shoes with good grip for the somewhat challenging 500-step descent and ascent.
- Bring swimwear to enjoy a refreshing dip in the natural pool at the base of the waterfall.
- Pack essentials like water, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a waterproof bag to protect belongings.
- Purchase tickets online in advance to skip potential lines, especially during busy periods.
Getting There
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Driving
From La Fortuna town, follow well-maintained roads for approximately 3.4 miles (5.5 km) to La Fortuna Waterfall. Use GPS navigation for precise directions. Parking is free at the entrance. Be aware that parking can be limited, so arriving early is recommended.
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Taxi
Taxis are readily available in La Fortuna. A taxi ride from the town center to La Fortuna Waterfall costs around $10-$15 USD each way. Confirm the fare with the driver before starting the journey.
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Walking
For those staying in La Fortuna town and seeking an active option, walking to the waterfall is possible. The distance is roughly 3.4 miles (5.5 km). Be prepared for a moderately challenging walk, especially on the uphill return. Remember to bring water and wear appropriate footwear. There is no public bus to the waterfall.
Discover more about Fortuna Waterfall
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Ecological Reserve Fortuna Waterfall
0.1 km
Discover the majestic La Fortuna Waterfall in Costa Rica: a stunning natural wonder offering breathtaking views, refreshing swims, and unforgettable experiences.
Soda Tita Rosa
2.1 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Soda Tita Rosa in La Fortuna. Fresh, local ingredients and traditional flavors await!
La Fortuna Waterfall Bungalows
2.5 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of La Fortuna Waterfall, a natural wonder in the heart of Costa Rica's rainforest.
Parque Vista Arenal
3.0 km
Discover panoramic views of Arenal Volcano, explore lush trails, and immerse yourself in Costa Rica's rich biodiversity at Parque Vista Arenal.
Mirador el Nido del Arenal
3.0 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican flavors with breathtaking views at Mirador el Nido del Arenal, a culinary gem in Alajuela.
La Cava
3.0 km
Savor artisanal pizzas, grilled specialties, and Costa Rican flavors at La Cava, a San Carlos culinary destination near Arenal Volcano.
Soda Las Flores
3.0 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Soda Las Flores in San Carlos. Enjoy traditional flavors and warm hospitality in a cozy setting.
Marisquería Delcarajo
3.0 km
Savor fresh seafood and authentic Costa Rican flavors at Marisquería Delcarajo in La Fortuna, a local favorite for a vibrant culinary experience.
Arenal History Inn
3.0 km
Discover cozy comfort and volcano views at Arenal History Inn, your gateway to La Fortuna's natural wonders and thrilling adventures.
El Coloso Arenal
3.0 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine at El Coloso Arenal, a local favorite in La Fortuna with a warm atmosphere and delicious traditional dishes.
Arenal ATV Wheels
3.3 km
Experience thrilling ATV adventures through La Fortuna's stunning landscapes. Explore the Arenal Volcano region with Arenal ATV Wheels!
Paraiso Orgánico
3.3 km
Discover sustainable farming in La Fortuna at Paraiso Orgánico, where you can explore lush gardens and savor the flavors of Costa Rica.
Parqueo Poza El Salto
3.3 km
Experience the thrill of a natural rope swing and refreshing waters at this free swimming hole near La Fortuna.
Arenal Vida Campesina
3.4 km
Experience Costa Rican farm life: harvest crops, learn traditions, and savor organic cuisine at Arenal Vida Campesina with volcano views.
Yellow Bark
3.4 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Yellow Bark in La Fortuna, where fresh, local ingredients meet innovative flavors in a tropical setting.
Unmissable attractions to see
Cataratas Escondidas
1.0 km
Explore the breathtaking Cataratas Escondidas in San Ramón, Alajuela - a hidden waterfall paradise rich in natural beauty and adventure.
Wood & Art Gallery
1.3 km
Explore unique handcrafted art and sculptures at Wood & Art Gallery in La Fortuna, Costa Rica, where creativity meets the beauty of nature.
Papa's Place
1.3 km
Explore the beauty of Costa Rica at Papa's Place, a perfect blend of bird watching, hiking, and farmstay experiences in Alajuela Province.
Arenal River Tubing & Hiking
1.7 km
Experience Costa Rica's best river tubing and hiking adventure near Arenal Volcano. Explore rainforests and ride the rapids!
Ecoterra Costa Rica - Tours & Transfers
2.0 km
Discover the wonders of Costa Rica with Ecoterra, your trusted partner for eco-friendly tours, transportation, and unforgettable adventures in La Fortuna.
Green Vacations Costa Rica
2.2 km
Discover the beauty of Costa Rica with Green Vacations, your eco-friendly tour agency in La Fortuna, offering unforgettable nature experiences.
Arenal Oasis Eco Lodge & Wildlife Refuge
2.3 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Arenal Oasis Eco Lodge & Wildlife Refuge, where comfort meets nature in La Fortuna, Costa Rica.
Rainforest Chocolate Tour
2.4 km
Explore the Rainforest Chocolate Tour in La Fortuna, Costa Rica, and indulge in a delightful journey through the world of chocolate-making amidst breathtaking nature.
Chato Volcano
2.5 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Chato Volcano in Alajuela Province, Costa Rica, with its stunning crater lake and vibrant biodiversity.
La Fortuna Wellness
2.9 km
Experience holistic rejuvenation and serenity at La Fortuna Wellness, a premier yoga retreat center in Costa Rica's lush Alajuela Province.
Parque Arenal Mundo Aventura
3.0 km
Discover Arenal Mundo Aventura, an ecological park in Costa Rica, where adventure meets breathtaking natural beauty and rich biodiversity.
Canoa Aventura Tour Operador
3.1 km
Discover unforgettable adventures with Canoa Aventura in San Carlos, where thrilling experiences meet the breathtaking beauty of Costa Rica's nature.
El Salto (Rope Swing)
3.2 km
Discover the thrilling adventure of El Salto, a breathtaking rope swing nestled in the heart of Costa Rica's lush rainforest, perfect for nature enthusiasts and thrill-seekers alike.
El Salto - Río Fortuna
3.2 km
Experience the natural beauty of El Salto - Río Fortuna, a refreshing swimming hole in La Fortuna, Costa Rica, surrounded by waterfalls and lush greenery.
Sloth Watching Trail La Fortuna, Arenal Volcano Private Trail
3.4 km
Experience the tranquility of sloths in their natural habitat at La Fortuna's captivating Sloth Watching Trail, a nature lover's paradise in Costa Rica.
Essential places to dine
Yellow Tree Restaurant
1.5 km
Experience exquisite local cuisine surrounded by nature's beauty at Yellow Tree Restaurant in La Fortuna, Costa Rica.
Restaurante Hojarasca
2.1 km
Discover authentic Costa Rican flavors at Restaurante Hojarasca amidst the breathtaking landscapes of La Fortuna.
La Finquita from Farm to Table
2.7 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine at La Finquita, where every meal is a celebration of fresh, locally-sourced ingredients.
El Chante Verde
2.8 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican flavors at El Chante Verde in La Fortuna - a must-visit restaurant for every traveler.
SODA El Turnito
3.0 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican flavors at SODA El Turnito in La Fortuna - a must-visit eatery for every traveler.
La Tipica
3.0 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican flavors at La Tipica in La Fortuna – a must-visit restaurant for every traveler seeking local cuisine.
SAFFRON INDIAN FOOD BAR AND GRILL
3.0 km
Discover authentic Indian cuisine at Saffron Indian Food Bar and Grill in San Carlos—where every dish tells a flavorful story.
Rana Roja
3.1 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of Costa Rica at Rana Roja - where authentic cuisine meets warm hospitality in La Fortuna.
Sunny's Indian Restaurant
3.1 km
Discover authentic Indian flavors at Sunny's Indian Restaurant in La Fortuna – a culinary gem amidst Costa Rica's stunning landscapes.
Soda Monkey's Place
3.1 km
Discover the authentic taste of Costa Rica at Soda Monkey's Place in La Fortuna, where local flavors meet warm hospitality.
Hunters & Gatherers Costa Rica
3.3 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Hunters & Gatherers, where farm-fresh ingredients meet culinary creativity in La Fortuna.
Restaurant Garra Pata
3.3 km
Discover authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Restaurant Garra Pata in La Fortuna - a must-visit for food lovers exploring beautiful landscapes.
Restaurant El Perezoso
3.3 km
Discover authentic Costa Rican flavors at Restaurant El Perezoso in La Fortuna - where local ingredients meet breathtaking views.
Casa Fortuna, Restaurante Familiar.
3.5 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican flavors at Casa Fortuna in La Fortuna - where every meal is a celebration of local cuisine.
Restaurant Pura Vida
3.6 km
Discover the exquisite fusion of Chinese cuisine and Costa Rican flavors at Restaurant Pura Vida in La Fortuna.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Neptune's House of Hammocks
1.2 km
Explore the vibrant world of handcrafted hammocks at Neptune's House of Hammocks in La Fortuna, Costa Rica, and take home a piece of paradise.
Manus cr tienda online
1.7 km
Explore Manus CR in La Fortuna for exquisite swimwear and custom clothing that embodies Costa Rican charm and style.
Biosfera Skincare (Experience Store)
1.8 km
Explore sustainable beauty at Biosfera Skincare, where Costa Rican nature meets skincare innovation for an eco-friendly experience.
Howler Monkey Store
2.4 km
Explore La Fortuna's Howler Monkey Store for unique custom t-shirts and stylish fashion accessories celebrating Costa Rican culture.
Arte Natura, Boutique Hotel in La Fortuna - Costa Rica Vacations, Book it Now
3.0 km
Experience the perfect blend of comfort and nature at Arte Natura Boutique Hotel in La Fortuna, your gateway to Costa Rica's breathtaking landscapes.
Red Frog Coffee Roasters
3.0 km
Discover the rich flavors of Costa Rican coffee at Red Frog Coffee Roasters, a charming espresso bar in La Fortuna, perfect for every coffee lover.
Original Grand Gallery
3.0 km
Explore authentic Costa Rican art and unique souvenirs at Original Grand Gallery in La Fortuna, a cultural haven for every visitor.
Arenal Bee Garden - Honey, Coffee & Chocolate Tour
3.1 km
Experience the harmony of nature at Arenal Bee Garden, where honey, coffee, and chocolate come together in a delightful adventure.
Souvenir store
3.1 km
Explore the vibrant culture of Costa Rica at this charming souvenir store in San Carlos, where unique treasures await every traveler.
Súper Rosvil La Fortuna
3.8 km
Experience the convenience of Súper Rosvil La Fortuna, your one-stop supermarket for groceries and local products in the heart of Costa Rica's adventure capital.
Centro Comercial La Fortuna
3.8 km
Discover the lively Centro Comercial La Fortuna, a premier shopping destination in La Fortuna with diverse shops, dining, and entertainment experiences.
Cristian Supermarket 1
3.9 km
Discover the vibrant offerings of Cristian Supermarket in La Fortuna, where local culture meets convenience for tourists seeking a true taste of Costa Rica.
Everything Adventures
3.9 km
Discover Everything Adventures in La Fortuna for top-notch camping gear and unforgettable outdoor experiences in Costa Rica's stunning landscapes.
Sarahlu boutique
3.9 km
Explore Sarahlu Boutique in La Fortuna for unique women's clothing that reflects Costa Rican culture and craftsmanship.
Malibú Clothes
3.9 km
Explore vintage fashion in La Fortuna at Malibú Clothes, where each piece tells a unique story amid Costa Rica's stunning landscapes.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
MAGIC SPORT BAR, Magic Mountain Hotel
3.0 km
Discover the lively Magic Sport Bar at Magic Mountain Hotel, where great drinks and vibrant atmosphere meet in La Fortuna, Costa Rica.
Cha
3.4 km
Experience the vibrant flavors and welcoming atmosphere at Cha, La Fortuna's beloved bar, perfect for unwinding after exploring Costa Rica's natural wonders.
Tamarindo Chill
3.5 km
Discover the serene vibe of Tamarindo Chill in La Fortuna, offering refreshing cocktails and a perfect escape in Costa Rica's lush landscapes.
Bar Patrón Costa Rica
3.6 km
Experience a vibrant cocktail bar in La Fortuna, Costa Rica, with exotic flavors, stunning views, and a lively atmosphere perfect for tourists.
Chicha's Restaurant & Lounge Bar
3.6 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican flavors at Chicha's Restaurant & Lounge Bar in La Fortuna, where vibrant cuisine meets stunning views.
La Fortuna Pub
3.8 km
Discover La Fortuna Pub, a lively destination for delicious food, refreshing drinks, and an unforgettable atmosphere in the heart of Costa Rica.
Tropical Lounge Bar
4.0 km
Experience the flavors of Costa Rica at Tropical Lounge Bar, a vibrant grill bar in La Fortuna offering delicious food and refreshing tropical drinks.
Restaurante Relax
4.1 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Costa Rica at Restaurante Relax, a charming bar in La Fortuna offering local cuisine and stunning views.
Sander’s Bar & Restaurante
4.1 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere and local flavors at Sander's Bar & Restaurante in La Fortuna, a must-visit for every traveler.
Balcón Arenal Restaurante y Sport Bar Lazy Twins
4.1 km
Experience vibrant dining and stunning views of Arenal Volcano at Balcón Arenal Restaurante y Sport Bar, La Fortuna's culinary gem.
The Pool Bar & Restaurant
4.1 km
Discover the vibrant flavors and relaxing atmosphere of The Pool Bar & Restaurant, a top destination for food and drinks in La Fortuna, Costa Rica.
Wine O’clock
4.2 km
Experience a delightful evening at Wine O’clock, La Fortuna’s premier wine bar offering a curated selection of global wines in a charming setting.
BEERLAND CR
4.2 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and diverse craft beers at Beerland CR, a premier gastropub in La Fortuna, Costa Rica.
BEERLAND
4.2 km
Experience the vibrant craft beer culture at Beerland, La Fortuna's top brewpub with exceptional local brews and lively atmosphere.
The Open Kitchen - La Fortuna
4.3 km
Explore culinary artistry at The Open Kitchen in La Fortuna, offering a delightful mix of Mediterranean dishes, local coffee, and irresistible desserts.
